An Old Florida Magical Experience Without The Tourist Crowds

Philippe Park is tucked along the shores of Old Tampa Bay — far from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It’s a favorite among locals seeking respite, quiet contemplation, and a peaceful place to exercise. You won’t often find it featured in Florida tour books or glossy travel guides. Best of all, admission is free — unlike…

Read More

The Best Travel Camera To Explore Your World

When GoPro released its Max 2 360 camera this fall, I paid close attention to the early reviews. Nearly every article and YouTube video raved about its capabilities, and PC Magazine even named it an Editors’ Choice as the top action camera on the market. That sealed my decision. I’m deeply rooted in the GoPro…

Read More

Acadia National Park: Starry, Starry Nights!

I played with the stars over Acadia National Park not knowing what the results would be. Boy, was I ever pleasantly surprised. Our rented cottage in the small village of Bernard, Maine is by the water in an area called Duck Cove. Light pollution is virtually nil at night so it’s a good environment not…

Read More

Sitting By The Dock Of The Bay Watching A Tall Ship Pull Away

Excuse me for borrowing the title of the well-known Otis Redding song—slightly modified. But it feels fitting. Labor Day Monday finds me sitting at the Bar Harbor Inn’s outdoor restaurant, overlooking Frenchman Bay in Maine’s Acadia National Park. My view is spectacular, centered on the schooner Margaret Todd. A tourist favorite, it offers a relaxing sail…

Read More

From Maine: Happy Labor Day Weekend!

I woke up in our cozy seaside cottage to a brilliant morning in Bernard, Maine. Tucked on Mount Desert Island, right on the edge of Acadia National Park, Bernard is often called the “quiet side” of the island—away from busy Southwest Harbor yet close to incredible restaurants, charming shops, and stunning hiking trails. We’ve visited…

Read More